Dear Church Family,
With mixed emotions, I am announcing the retirement of Judy Dorris, our beloved Director of Children’s Ministry. After 20 years of steadfast leadership, “Miss JuJu” is ready to spend more time with her precious grandchildren and family.
Judy will remain in her role until next June.
Hebrews 13:7 tells us, “Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.” This is a picture of Judy. Her deep faith, love for Scripture, and belief in the power of the Gospel to transform lives is a model for each of us.
Since joining West End’s staff, Judy’s been a prayer partner for me, an encouragement to parents, and a mentor to children’s ministry leaders near and far. The groundbreaking Transformation Station she created, for example, is now emulated in many churches. More recently, Judy has been coaching the staff of City Church, based in Manchester, UK, one of our missional partners.
We will take more time to honor Judy in the months ahead. In the meantime, I want you to be fully assured we are carefully preparing for this transition.
Working closely with Judy, the Session, and senior staff, we have engaged a national firm to help us identify the best possible candidates for this role and to navigate the transition. As part of this process, a number of leaders, parents, and volunteers will be involved.
After describing the qualities of a great leader, the writer of Hebrews reminds us, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). To me, this means we can confidently believe He will continue to bless our children’s ministry at this important time.
Yours for making disciples of Jesus Christ to the ends of the earth,
Carter Crenshaw
Senior Pastor